Grounding Yourself: Foot Health Strategies to Keep You Moving

Krista Sheehan | Wellness Lead

According to Webster’s Dictionary, foundation is defined as “a basis (such as a tenet, principle, or axiom) upon which something stands or is supported.” It’s easy to think about the importance of a foundation when building a house or establishing a new relationship. But when it comes to caring for ourselves and our overall wellbeing, the “foundation” of the human body is often overlooked.

Our feet play an integral role in movement, posture, and body mechanics and are crucial to our overall health. According to podiatrist Dr. Kevin Riemer: “As you age, healthy feet become essential for being mobile, active, and safe.” With May being Foot Health Awareness Month in Canada, it’s the perfect time to highlight how ARTA recognizes the importance of foot health.

In February, ARTA, in collaboration with PediPros Mobile Foot Care, hosted a one‑day clinic to support the foot health of members in the Greater Edmonton Area. Licensed and Registered Nurses provided 49 members with pre‑scheduled appointments that included basic foot care services such as:

• Foot and leg assessments
• Toenail trimming and filing
• Callus and corn care
• Moisturizer application
• Referrals to a podiatrist or physician when needed

Members expressed how grateful they were for the coordinated opportunity to see a foot care specialist and be offered strategies to maintain their foot health.

Caring for the Feet That Carry You

No worries – here are some steps (no pun intended!) you can take to keep your feet healthy:

• Daily inspections: Check your feet every day for swelling, cuts, or changes in colour. If it’s difficult, use a mirror or ask someone for help.
• Wash your feet: Just like keeping our hands clean, it is equally important to wash your feet. Clean your feet daily using warm water, but avoid soaking for more than 10 minutes and be sure to dry thoroughly – especially between the toes.
• Health care consultations: Schedule routine visits with a health care professional, particularly if you have circulation concerns, diabetes, or arthritis.
• Comfort: Wear well‑fitting shoes and socks to help keep feet dry and supported. Proper footwear can also reduce the risk of falls. Check out Duane Radford’s article in news&views on the importance of good footwear.
• Stay active: Whether walking or doing seated exercises, keeping your feet moving supports circulation and overall mobility – keeping your muscles and mind healthy!
• Reach out: If you have questions about your foot care coverage or other claim-related inquiries, please log in to your MyARTA online portal or contact ARTA:
  
  Phone: 780-989-8709
  Toll-free: 1-855-444-ARTA (2782)
  Email: [email protected]
  Submit PDF claim forms: [email protected]

Put Your Best Foot Forward

What better way to stay active than by joining ARTA’s Heart and Sole Wellness Walks this June during Seniors’ Week? Enjoy the outdoors, social connection, physical activity – and perhaps a few special treats.

And if that wasn’t enough, we’re thrilled to announce that ARTARx will be introducing Urban Poling products to their pharmacy line. If you’re not familiar with Urban Poling (also known as Nordic walking), it’s an excellent way to enhance your walking routine and create a full‑body workout. Originally developed by Finnish cross‑country skiing and biathlon teams in the 1960s and 1970s, Urban Poling offers many benefits, including:

• 20–46% more calories burned than standard walking
• Improved balance, posture, and flexibility
• Reduced impact on knees and hips
• Support for chronic disease management
• Enhanced mood and motivation

Although not covered by your ARTA Benefits, Urban Poling products will be available at competitive pricing at both Edmonton and Calgary ARTARx locations starting June 1, 2026.

So next time you’re thinking about wellness, remember to ground yourself. A healthy foundation creates a ripple effect that benefits your entire body – and your mind.

Krista Sheehan
Wellness Lead, ARTA